No fluff. No filters. No hidden agendas. I bring you the raw, unfiltered reality of our beloved sport. From the true champions in the sky to the heartwarming stories behind the loft doors — every feathered tale is worth telling. Because racing pigeons isn't just a hobby... It's a way of life. A global passion. The purest form of competitive sport on wings. Here, you’ll find only the best:
🏆 Real results, 🔥 Real fanciers, 💥 Real inspiration. Join me in celebrating everything that makes our sport the most thrilling on Earth.
Jan de Wijs (The Pigeon Boss)
The first international marathon of 2025 delivered fireworks. And no one shone brighter than Jan Grootoonk from Bant, who claimed 1st National Pau with his brilliant hen FLEUR — a petite powerhouse with pedigree, performance and purpose.
Once again, Richard van den Bos from Stad aan ’t Haringvliet makes headlines in Dutch pigeon racing. On June 21, 2025, during the demanding race from Lamotte-Beuvron (487 km) against 4,381 pigeons in Afdeling 5, his cock NL23-9287637 stormed home first with a velocity of 1302.411 m/min — claiming the 1st prize! What followed was a masterclass in team performance and consistency.
Every now and then, something happens in pigeon sport that stops you in your tracks. A moment that hits you right in the heart. Because someone finally dares to say out loud what so many fanciers have been whispering for years. This week, that moment came when I read the honest and passionate statement from Kris Cleirbaut.
Saturday, June 14, 2025 – A historic day in the world of marathon pigeon racing. From the iconic South French release point St. Vincent Tyrosse, 1,107 pigeons took flight in Afdeling 8, facing 1,135 kilometers of challenging terrain, warm temperatures, and a northwest breeze.
Once again, Gino Clicque of Wevelgem writes his name in the history books. On June 16th, 2025, his incredible pigeon BE.23-3010465, better known as “ Golden Medard”, claimed 1st National Cahors against a field of 5,226 old birds. Covering the 712-kilometer course at a speed of 1,144 meters per minute, this wasn’t just a race — it was a statement.
In the fast-paced world of modern pigeon racing, precision is everything. One thousandth of a second can be the difference between first and forgotten. That’s why I — the Pigeon Boss — fully endorse and personally recommend the most advanced, reliable, and fancier-friendly timing system on the planet: the Benzing M3.
If you want to give your marathon pigeons a natural performance boost, Herbovet Herbobeets is the perfect addition to their diet. This concentrated beet juice is one of the top products for improving endurance and recovery in pigeons. I’ve been using beet juice for years and have seen firsthand how it enhances oxygen efficiency and speeds up recovery after long flights.
Last Wednesday, I loaded up a group of pigeons and drove to Steenbergen for a training toss. Everything seemed perfect — blue skies, a light tailwind, and a basket full of eager wings. But when I got back home, I noticed something was off. Three of the birds didn’t return on time. They came back eventually, but much later than expected, and visibly tired.
Now, most fanciers would chalk it up to a tough day and move on. But here at my loft, every pigeon gets the attention it deserves — not just physically, but mentally too. And believe me, that mental side is massively underestimated in the pigeon sport.
As a pigeon racing enthusiast, I know better than anyone how important proper nutrition is for our feathered athletes. But besides a balanced feeding regimen, grit and minerals are just as essential! Yet, I still see some fanciers paying too little attention to this. That's why today, my Pigeon Boss Tip: never underestimate the importance of grit and minerals!
I am excited to hear from you! Whether you have questions, feedback, or just want to say hello, we're here to help. Use the form below to get in touch, or reach out to us through the contact details provided.
Derde Werelddreef 253
2622HK Delft
The Netherlands
Phone: +31621526452
E-mail: jan@pigeonboss.com
C.O.C. 75551470
V.A.T.: NL860320789B01
